United in Diversity, Stronger in inclusion
Hello, I am Opeyemi Adeyemi, and I am thrilled to present you my manifesto for the role of Vice President Diversity of the university of Wolverhampton’s students’ union. My journey at the University of Wolverhampton has been wound with varied cultures, ideas, and beliefs. It's time to weave these threads into a vibrant fabric of diversity and inclusivity.
My dedication to our community and belief in my capability to propel us forward are unwavering. Having served as the Vice President Diversity for the past months, I've seen the transformative power of the Students Union in enhancing student experience, from championing improved facilities and orchestrating engaging social gatherings to offering academic support and advice. My efforts have included organizing a trip to the Liverpool International Slave Museum, hosting several events in our very own Luna lounge, attending promptly to students concerns, leading the "Black resistance" conference, cost of living campaign, clothes swap, arranging an all-students mixer, and participating in various university meetings aimed at elevating the student experience. My commitment to expanding upon these achievements is steadfast, as I aim to advance our Student Union into a more inclusive, supportive, and impactful unit that truly echoes the diverse voices of our student body.
Imagine a campus where every voice is heard, every culture is celebrated, and every individual empowered. A place where diversity isn’t just accepted, but cherished; where inclusion isn’t an afterthought, but our cornerstone. In light of this, my manifesto revolves around:
Empowering Every Voice: To increase representation and visibility of underrepresented groups within the students’ union and throughout the university. Set up an initiative to host regular drop-in sessions/ forums where students from all backgrounds/ identity can share their experiences and insights. Collaborate with relevant departments and partners for different groups and societies. i.e. liberation reps, EDI, disability reps, Student support etc. ensuring that diverse perspectives are included in decision-making processes that affect the student body.
Inclusive Excellence: advocate for policies and initiatives that promote equity, equality, and inclusion for all students, regardless of their background or identity. Inclusion Workshops: educational and engaging workshops focused on topics like unconscious bias, cultural sensitivity, and inclusive communication. These sessions will be tailored to both students and staff, ensuring a campus-wide embrace of inclusivity.
Mentorship Programs: Implement a cross-cultural mentorship scheme connecting students from diverse backgrounds and students with diverse needs to support and empower each other. This program aims to foster personal and professional growth, providing support networks that extend beyond university walls.
Barrier-Free Campus: A comprehensive review of physical and digital accessibility to ensure everyone moves freely and confidently in our campus environment without any stereotypes/ bias. A commitment to ensuring that all students, regardless of their background or abilities, have access to the resources they need by recognizing the unique challenges faced by diverse groups. This includes enhancing mental wellbeing support, academic assistance, and ensuring physical accessibility across campus.
Global Yet Local: Strengthen connections with international students, ensuring they feel at home while bringing the world to Wolverhampton by organising events that celebrate different cultures, identities, and backgrounds to promote understanding and appreciation among students.
Accountability: Host regular “town hall” meetings, forums, and drop-in sessions to provide a platform for students to share their experiences, concerns and ask questions relating to diversity and liberation.
Join Me in This Journey!
Let's build a University of Wolverhampton where diversity isn't just accepted but celebrated, where inclusion isn't an afterthought but the foundation of our community. As your Vice President Diversity, I promise to be your ally, your advocate, and your voice. Together, we can build not just a campus, but a community that shines in its diversity and thrives in its inclusivity. Let’s make Wolverhampton not just a place we study, but a home we cherish.
Vote Opeyemi Adeyemi for Vice President of Diversity. Together, let's turn our differences into our greatest strength!